Yesterday, Middle School students enjoyed the Discovery Theater production of How Old Is a Hero? The play highlights the contributions and heroic actions of three young people who helped move our nation forward during the Civil Rights Movement – Ernest Green of the Little Rock Nine, Claudette Colvin, and Ruby Bridges. Their stories provide inspiring examples of perseverance, courage, social change, civil rights, and activism.

On February 14, Potomac tenth graders visited the U.S. Holocaust Museum for the opportunity to learn about the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust through exhibits, artifacts, and other sources that highlight stories of courage and resistance. The trip was marked with solemnity as students viewed the museum’s collections, which helped them commemorate the lives lost and the unspeakable horrors that took place during the period. When they returned to campus, students broke off into smaller discussion groups to share about the experience. Beyond making connections to lessons in their Modern World History and English classes, the powerful experience helped students reflect on the consequences of hatred, bigotry, and intolerance, as well as the imperative of speaking out against injustice of any sort.

Tuesday brought a variety of performances, games, and opportunities for students to learn about and celebrate the Lunar New Year. From a professional Chinese opera performance to student-led performances arranged by US Chinese teacher Carol Jia, the assembly showcased some of the ways people around the world ring in the Lunar New Year. Afterward, the Crossroads was abuzz, with a calligraphy station, a chopstick competition, and a masterclass in making (and eating) dumplings, thanks to a crew of parent volunteers. Appreciation and applause to the students who modeled tremendous courage in getting up on stage and performing in a non-native tongue. Happy Year of the Rabbit!